Elīna Garanča. Young Baltic Voices is the first and only programme for young opera singers in the Baltic region. Its aim is to support outstanding emerging artists from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia in launching international careers by providing intensive practical training, professional guidance, and the skills required in today’s opera industry.

The programme’s patron and ambassador is the world-renowned Latvian mezzo-soprano Elīna Garanča, an inspiring mentor for young artists.

The programme runs for one season, from September to June, offering an intensive training and professional development process at the Latvian National Opera, in close collaboration with the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music.

The programme Elīna Garanča. Young Baltic Voices is made possible thanks to a generous donation from the family of the distinguished set and costume designer Pēteris Rožlapa (1906–1991).

Applications are open to solo vocalists from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia up to the age of 30 (born in 1996 or later). Applicants must hold a higher education degree in vocal studies (Bachelor’s or Master’s) or be final-year students graduating in the first half of 2026.

Training and practical work will take place in Riga from September 2026 to June 2027, both individually and in group settings. The programme includes three main areas:

• vocal development, interpretation, and technique;

• acting, movement, and stage practice;

• mentoring, career development skills, and insight into the opera profession.

  
  

The selection process takes place in two rounds. The first round is based on evaluation of submitted materials. Candidates selected for the second round will be invited to a live audition at the Latvian National Opera in Riga.

For the 2026/2027 season, up to four singers from the Baltic states will be admitted. While a diversity of voice types is desirable, the primary selection criteria are talent, artistic potential, and motivation.

Participation in the programme is free of charge. While it does not confer a formal academic degree, it provides comprehensive professional training and practical experience, preparing young artists for careers in opera.

How to Apply for the 2026/2027 Season

Application period:

12 February – 16 March 2026

Applications must be submitted by completing the online application form in English.

Required Materials

Applicants must submit:

• links to video recordings (total duration up to 20 minutes, recorded within the last 12 months):

  • two opera arias;

  • one art song;

• one portrait photo (JPG or PNG format).

  Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Selection Process

Round 1 – Preliminary selection (based on submitted materials)

The jury will review all applications and select candidates to advance to the second round.

Round 2 – Live auditions

15–16 May 2026

Latvian National Opera, Riga

Shortlisted candidates will receive detailed instructions individually.

Results

The results of Round 1 will be announced on 15 April 2026 at:

http://www.youngbalticvoices.com

Following the live auditions, up to four participants will be admitted to the programme for the 2026/2027 season.

All selected candidates will also be notified individually.